A collaboration between Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital and Monash University demonstrates that increased dietary lutein and zeaxanthin intake correlates with reduced biological age acceleration across cardiovascular, hepatic, and renal systems. This conclusion stems from statistical analysis of NHANES 2007–2015 cohort data, complemented by transcriptomic investigations of telomere regulation and inflammatory pathways.
Key points
High combined lutein/zeaxanthin intake significantly reduces biological age acceleration across cardiovascular, renal, and hepatic systems in NHANES cohort.
Cox regression shows Q4 LZ intake lowers all-cause mortality risk by ~40–45% compared to Q1.
Transcriptomic profiling identifies telomere maintenance, metabolic reprogramming, and inflammation suppression as lutein’s anti-aging mechanisms.
Why it matters:
This finding highlights a noninvasive, dietary strategy to decelerate organ‐specific aging, offering scalable interventions for healthy longevity.
Q&A
What is biological age?
How were lutein and zeaxanthin intake measured?
What mechanisms underlie lutein’s anti-aging effects?
Why use the Klemera-Doubal Method (KDM)?
How much lutein intake is considered high?
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Academy
Introduction to Carotenoids
Carotenoids are a class of colorful plant pigments found in vegetables, fruits, and algae. They serve important roles in human health, such as acting as antioxidants and supporting eye function. Among them, lutein and zeaxanthin accumulate in the retina and throughout the body. Recent research suggests these compounds may also influence the rate at which our organs age, offering dietary approaches to support healthy longevity.
Lutein and Zeaxanthin: Key Dietary Carotenoids
Lutein and zeaxanthin are xanthophyll carotenoids with potent antioxidant properties. Because our bodies cannot synthesize them, we must obtain them through diet. Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale), colorful fruits (orange peppers, corn), and egg yolks are rich sources. These molecules help neutralize free radicals—unstable compounds that can damage cells and accelerate aging. Regular intake supports eye health and may extend protective effects to other organs.
Biological Age Versus Chronological Age
While chronological age measures the time since birth, biological age reflects the functional state of organs and tissues. Researchers calculate biological age using biomarkers—such as blood lipids, liver enzymes, kidney markers, and blood pressure—that change predictably with aging. By comparing biological age to chronological age, we can see if a person’s body is “younger” or “older” than expected, guiding lifestyle interventions like diet or exercise.
How Diet Influences Aging
Dietary antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin help protect cells from oxidative stress, a major contributor to molecular damage and aging. Studies analyze health surveys (e.g., NHANES) to link nutrient intake with biological age measures. These analyses use statistical models to adjust for factors like smoking or exercise. Transcriptomic studies further reveal how nutrients regulate genes involved in DNA repair, telomere maintenance, and inflammation, connecting diet directly to cellular aging pathways.
Dietary Sources and Recommendations
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, collard greens provide 5–20 mg of lutein per serving.
- Colorful vegetables: Yellow peppers, corn, and squash contain both lutein and zeaxanthin.
- Egg yolks: Bioavailable source of lutein; about 0.25–0.5 mg per yolk.
- Supplements: Standard lutein capsules provide 6–20 mg, often combined with zeaxanthin.
Nutrition guidelines recommend 6–10 mg/day of combined lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health; emerging evidence supports similar intakes for longevity benefits.
Conclusion
Incorporating lutein- and zeaxanthin-rich foods into daily meals offers a practical, accessible strategy to slow organ-specific aging processes. By protecting cells from oxidative damage and regulating anti-aging pathways, these dietary carotenoids support healthier aging and extend functional lifespan.